Cignal star Marck Espejo felt nostalgic after going up against National University-Sta. Elena in the 2022 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference last Tuesday.
No, it wasn’t because of the fact that he had countless great battles with the Nationals in the UAAP.
It was simply because NU-Sta. Elena rookie Michaelo Buddin reminded him of his younger self, back when he was just a budding spiker from Marikina that was trying to make a name for himself.
“Siguro, ico-commend ko rin yung Buddin. Kasi, parang nung bata ako nakikita ko yung sarili ko sa kanya, kung paano siya mag-laro,” said Espejo after the HD Spikers’ 25-22, 25-22, 25-22 win over the Nationals that placed them at the second seed.
Espejo dropped 17 points laced with 19 excellent receptions and five digs for Cignal while Buddin top scored for NU-Sta. Elena with 14 markers.
The five-time UAAP MVP said that he hopes that the Nationals’ loss can light a fire in Buddin that he can carry into the playoffs – and eventually, the UAAP Season 85 men’s volleyball tournament.
He also made sure to commend the entire NU-Sta. Elena, even saying that this batch of Bulldogs will be the barometer for every team once the collegiate season begins.
“I hope na maging fire sa kanya ‘to. Itong pagkatalo nila samin maging fire sa kaniya na bumawi sa next game namin and baunin niya papuntang UAAP,” said Espejo.
“Very promising po talaga ‘tong NU team. For me, itong NU team ngayon yung feel ko na magiging gauge ng lahat ng team sa UAAP.”
